5.2 Reasons We're Excited for "Death of the Family"

Stop us if you've heard this one: a clown cuts off his face and disappears from the spotlight for a year before coming back and wrecking all sorts of murder and mayhem on the lives of the entire Bat-Family with a frightful gusto and panache that would make even Nicolas Cage say, "Hey dude, that's pretty crazy."

 

No? Well, boy, are we about to put a smile on your face.

 

The Joker makes his triumphant return in BATMAN #13 to remind us that you can't spell slaughter without laughter and to kick off the crossover event "Death of the Family," which not only sees the aforementioned return of the Clown Prince of Crime, but also his methodical and downright terrifying plans to take down the Dark Knight and his allies in the crazed criminal's latest attempt at a laugh.

 

This event already had us tingling with anticipation. The Joker's been MIA since the launch of DC COMICS – THE NEW 52—save for his gruesome face-lift at the end of DETECTIVE COMICS #1—and his return promises to bring with it chills and thrills the likes of which we comic fans haven't seen in a while. So, this week, we're breaking down the 5.2 Reasons We're Excited for "Death of the Family!"

 

1. Scott Snyder...

With his first major foray into the Batman world in "The Black Mirror," Snyder definitively proved to readers that he knew his way around a story. With the launch of DC Comics – The New 52, he showed us that he could navigate that sucker with his eyes closed after having been spun around three times while Bizarro reads out directions to him. Not only that, his previous crossover, "Night of the Owls," was easily one of the best Batman stories ever told—so much so that if we ever see an owl again, we're punching that freaky little thing right in its weird bird-face.

 

2. ...writing the Joker...

"Death of the Family" marks the first time Snyder gets to play in the Joker's funhouse, and after what he managed to do with the brand-new villains of the Court of Owls (see previous note about uppercutting birds), we can't even begin to imagine the amount of blinding brilliance and horrifying awesomeness he'll bring to the most popular comic book villain in pop culture history. Don't even bother spraying us with Joker Gas, we're grinning with glee already.

 

3. ...alongside his fellow writers...

Of course, Snyder won't be the only one getting to cause mayhem and mischief throughout Gotham City and the lives of its caped crusaders. "Death of the Family" spans a number of Bat-titles, allowing for each writer to delve into the Joker's particular brand of insanity. We all go a little mad sometimes, and now they get to let that madness out onto the comic page.

 

 

4. ...all putting the members of the Bat-Family to the test.

As Snyder himself mentioned, the Joker really hasn't gone after the members of the Bat-Family directly before. Although he crippled Barbara Gordon and beat Jason Todd to death, those were both a part of his attack on Commissioner Gordon and Batman (and probably just for funsies cause he's, you know, psychotic). With "Death of the Family," the Joker gets to unleash all his crazy on the likes of Nightwing, Red Robin, Batgirl and Jason Todd. So, good luck, guys. It was nice knowing you.

 

5. But that's all just set-up for the punchline.

Everything we just mentioned is really just the pre-game before the party. All we're going to say is that by the end of Batman #13, you'll get an idea of the Joker's ultimate gag.

 

5.1 These Die-Cut Covers by Greg Capullo are Freakin' Awesome

 

 

5.2 THE JOKER CUT OFF HIS FACE! HOLY MONKEY BEANS!

 

Tags: 
5.2 Reasons, Batman, Death of the Family, joker, scott snyder

5.2 Reasons We Love DC Nation

This Saturday at 10 am on Cartoon Network, the DC Nation block of animated programs launches into all new episodes of Young Justice: Invasion and Green Lantern: The Animated Series. Of course, the icing on this animated cake of awesomeness is that we’ll also get brand-new installments of DC Nation shorts. That’s right. More Mad Presents... That's What Super Friends Are For! More The Batman of Shanghai!

 

Okay, some of you are likely freaking out with us right now while the rest of you are looking at us strangely. Well, don't back out of the room slowly just yet and ignore the crazed look in our eyes for a moment because we're about the give you 5.2 Reasons that DC Nation Is the Greatest Thing in the History of Everything Ever!

 

Nope. That title is a bit unruly and just makes us sound more crazy-go-nuts. Okay, let's try that again.

 

The return of the DC Nation has a lot of us pretty excited. Sure it reminds us of watching Saturday morning cartoons during our younger years, but also... well, here's the 5.2 Reasons We Love DC Nation!

 

1. All Ages Means All Ages

These days, when someone hears the term "all ages," they tend to interpret it as meaning "just for kids." Admittedly, sometimes this is the case. But other times, like with Young Justice and Green Lantern, all ages means literally that. While the show is perfect for younger fans—ripe with action and adventure—there are plenty of sophisticated themes and complex characters that will entice older viewers as well. Characters die, one guy loses a limb, and there are jokes that will give older viewers quite a laugh (especially one from Artemis about something being "not in a fun way").

 

 

2. Intricate Plots

Storytelling is a tricky thing. Sometimes you get all this build-up that never pays off and lets you down (we're lost on an example of that one), but other times you get mind-blowing revelations that compel you to go back and re-watch earlier episodes to catch the clues that were there all along. Young Justice especially has this in spades. Heck, even the opening scene from the first episode, which has the teen heroes taking down ice-themed villains, actually has a pay off near the end of the season.

 

 

3. Complex Characters

Throughout the course of the first 13 episodes of Green Lantern, viewers saw Razer go from villainous Red Lantern to courageous hero and Kilowog went from being badass to being even more awesomely badass (dude took on an armada!). Young Justice is no slouch in this department either. Every character goes from misleadingly one-note in the first episode to deeply and incredibly complex—none more so than Miss Martian. We must have sat with our jaw on the floor for an hour after viewing the episode "Image." Literally mind-blowing—as in a character actually got his mind blown. Ha! Jokes are fun... Seriously, though, that episode was crazy.

 

 

4. Something for the Fans

As comic fans, we get a bit of a thrill from noticing and pointing out things regular viewers might miss. The creators of Green Lantern and Young Justice love this fact as both shows are filled with hidden Easter Eggs and nods to comics and continuity. One episode of Green Lantern was practically straight up an adaptation of "Mogo Doesn't Socialize" and even the preview image below of the upcoming episode of Young Justice has a little nod to comic continuity:

 

 

5. DC Nation Shorts

We mentioned these earlier during our intro, but we really want to stress how awesome these are. They're delightfully hilarious and as comic fans it sort of amazes in the best way possibly that cartoons starring Animal Man and Plastic Man exists. Last season we saw great stuff like New Teen Titans and DC's World's Funnest (from Aardman, the animation studio behind Wallace and Gromit), and this season already has lined up Thunder & Lightning, Amethyst: Princess of Gemworld and a new series of shorts mashing up the Justice League with the animal kingdom.

 

5.1 Dick Grayson is Absolutely Awesome

 

 

5.2 Lauren Faust's Super Best Friends Forever

 

Tags: 
5.2 Reasons, DC Nation, Cartoon Network, young justice, Green Lantern: The Animated Series, Super Best Friends Forever

5.2 Reasons to Watch BATMAN: THE DARK KNIGHT RETURNS, PART 1

When Christopher Nolan's The Dark Knight first came out in theaters, naturally we went to a midnight showing. Afterward, we all thought basically the same thing, "Wow. We need to see that again." We went again the next day.

 

A similar thing happened after watching Batman: The Dark Knight Returns, Part 1, the animated adaptation of Frank Miller's seminal best-selling graphic novel. In fact, it was so enjoyable that part of our brain isn't even here right now. It's still thinking about the film and fighting with the other half to just stop writing and go home and watch it again.

 

Since, you know, job and responsibilities (dolla dolla bill, y'all), we can't really do that, we're instead going to give you 5.2 Reasons to Watch Batman: The Dark Knight Return, Part 1!

 

1. It's an Adaptation of THE DARK KNIGHT RETURNS

Let's get this one out there early. Frank Miller's Dark Knight Returns ranks as one of the most influential and character-defining comics in modern history. His grim and gritty take on the Caped Crusader set the tone for the character for almost every interpretation that followed. Even after 25 years, it still remains a perennial best-seller month after month. All that and it's quite simply a fantastically well-told story.

 

 

2. It's a GREAT Adaptation of The Dark Knight Returns

While watching the film, we popped open a copy of the graphic novel to compare. We suggest doing the same. Seeing certain iconic images come to life brought out a childlike giddiness. It's an extremely accurate adaptation. There are some slight deviations—tweaked dialogue and extended scenes—but it all enhances the story for film and allows both comic book and film to stand on equal footing of greatness in their respective mediums.

 

 

3. Peter Weller as Batman

When they announced Peter Weller as the voice of the aged and grizzled Bruce Wayne, it just seemed like a perfect fit. It also sent our nerd-fueled brains into a conniption. (Robocop as Batman?!) Weller's take on the character plays out brilliantly. It takes a little bit to see exactly what he's doing as it's subtle, but once you get it, it's like Joker gas to the face: you can't help but grin.

 

 

4. The Score

A good or bad musical score can make or break a movie. Christopher Drake—who composed the music for a number of DC animated films including Wonder Woman and Justice League: Doom—really struck the perfect chord (ha!) for the mood and tone of the film—and most importantly, the setting. Something about the music fit perfectly with the world itself and enhanced all the dialogue and action on the screen. You might even find yourself humming it while doing everyday stuff afterward. It'll make pouring cereal super epic.

 

5. It Gets You Excited for Part 2

As the title may suggest, Batman: The Dark Knight Returns, Part 1 covers the first half of the graphic novel—basically the initial, uh, return of the Dark Knight. Because of the split, the pacing excels tremendously and the end leaves you very, very excited for the next installment.

 

5.1 Awesome Easter Eggs

 

 

 

5.2 We Could Watch This Iconic Moment Over and Over Again

 

 

 

Now, if you'll excuse us, we need to go watch that movie again. Let us know in the comments below (hey, that rhymed!) what you're excited to see in the upcoming film and what other adaptations you think would be awesome to see!

Tags: 
5.2 Reasons, Batman, the dark knight returns, frank miller, joker, batman: the dark knight returns, Part 1

5.2 Reasons to Look Forward to Year Two of The New 52

This month marked the one-year anniversary of DC COMICS—THE NEW 52. It's hard to believe a whole year has gone by, but times flies when you're having fun and reading some rad comics. Also when you're playing video games. You think, "One more level and then I'll go to sleep," and next thing you know it's 4 a.m. so you might as well play through till morning.

Excuse us for the ramble. We're a little sleepy...

Anyway, over the past twelve months comic readers saw the early days of the Man of Steel as he rose from champion of the people to the world's greatest super hero, the formation of the world's premiere super team, a Bat punch the heck out of some Owls, a war of the gods, the rise of the Rot and much, much more.

It's been an insanely fun journey so far—but it's only just begun.

As much as we loved Year One, we're incredibly excited for what comes next and so, this week, we're giving our fans 5.2 Reasons to Look Forward to Year Two of The New 52!

1. Comics' Power Couple: Superman and Wonder Woman
In the Justice League arc "The Villain's Journey," two of the world's most powerful heroes began a relationship—one that's sure to have lasting consequences and repercussions throughout the entirety of the DC Universe. We're rather excited to see their relationship unfold and the impact it will undoubtedly have on the rest of the team. And there's also the fun of coming up with couple names: Dian-El... Kaliana... Dialark... Then again, maybe we should leave that to the professionals.



2. The Rise of the Third Army
We spoke about the awesomeness of the Green Lantern Universe previously, but it absolutely bears repeating. Over the past year writer Geoff Johns built an amazing story featuring (among so much more) the almost buddy cop-like relationship between Hal Jordan and Sinestro, the introduction of a new Green Lantern of Earth, and the decent of the Guardians into near kitten-punching villainy. And as fantastic as that's been, we know it'll only keep getting better:



3. Earths of the Multiple Variety
Writer James Robinson and artist Nicola Scott launched Earth 2 as part of the New 52's "Second Wave" of titles and introduced readers to a whole new world of super heroes similar, yet vastly different from our own. From the very first issue it has been a thrill ride filled with unexpected twists and turns—from the sudden death of the Trinity to emergence of a new breed of heroes—and there's literally a whole world of possibilities still out there to explore!



4. Girl Power
Wonder Woman, Batgirl, Supergirl, Batwoman, Worlds' Finest, Birds Of Prey, Catwoman—there are a number of phenomenal books currently on shelves that are written and drawn by all-star creative talent and headlined by female heroes, and this month Amethyst joins those ranks with SWORD OF SORCERY #0. Not to mention brilliant characters like Sir Ystin and Exoristos in Demon Knights, Zatanna and Black Orchid in Justice League Dark and more! Plus, one of our favorite female characters, Stargirl, returns in January in the pages of JLA!




5. Aquaman's Revenge
For quite a while Aquaman held a pretty bad rep. Even just recently he was lampooned in the extremely hilarious Robot Chicken DC Comics Special. But when writer Geoff Johns relaunched Aquaman last year, he accomplished something incredible: he made Aquaman one of the best-selling comics out there, period. It's been a breakout year for our aquatic hero and earlier today USA TODAY broke the story of what's coming next: the "Throne of Atlantis" crossover with Justice League! We can't even begin to imagine the depths of awesomeness this new storyline will take us, but we are more than ready and willing to take the plunge (puns!).
5.1 New Gods


5.2 The Joker's Back



What have you enjoyed most over the past year of The New 52? What are you looking forward to in the coming year? How much pickled peppers can the Pied Piper pipe? Let us know in the comments below!

Tags: 
5.2 Reasons, The New 52, Batman, Superman, wonder woman, Aquaman, Justice League, Green Lantern, joker, batgirl, supergirl, catwoman, birds of prey, Sword of Sorcery

5.2 Reasons Batman Live is a Can't Miss

Despite the Dark Knight's tendency in the world of comic books to stay in the shadows, in the real world, Batman does anything but. Seriously, the Caped Crusader has been featured in almost every type of media stage imaginable—from radio shows and award-winning animated television series to video games and blockbuster film franchises. However, he's long since been absent from one stage—the literal one.

 

That all changed in 2011 with the launch of BATMAN LIVE, a touring stage show that began in the UK, made its way through Europe and Latin America, and is now finally heading to the U.S.

 

The show has already received some pretty great reviews, but for those still reluctant to go check it out, we're giving you 5.2 Reasons Batman Live is a Can't Miss!

 

1. Written by Allan Heinberg

Allan Heinberg already has a pretty extensive television career writing for shows like "The O.C.," which featured a number of references to Superman, Watchmen, Sandman, and more. However, he's also no stranger to the world of comics, having written the incredible Young Avengers series for Marvel and co-wrote the JLA arc "Crisis of Coinscience" alongside Geoff Johns.

 

2. Robin Rises

As for the story itself, Batman Live focuses on one of the most defining moments in the history of the Dark Knight. No, not when his parents were killed (fair point, though). The other one. The introduction of Robin and beginning of the Dynamic Duo. And for those who think they already know the story, think again. There's some new twists and turns for the stage version of the tale, including the inclusion of numerous infamous inmates of Arkham.

 

3. The Batmobile

There have been a lot of different Batmobiles throughout the years, and while the tank-like Tumbler from the Christopher Nolan-directed films stands as one of the most powerful, the one from Batman Live might stand as one of the most scientifically sound. Designed by renowned Formula One race car designer Professor Gordon Murray—whose McLaren MP4/4 won 15 out of 16 Grands Prix—this Batmobile makes us desperately want to see the Caped Crusader taking it for a spin on the race tracks once the stage tour is over.

 

 

4. Gotham City Comes Alive

The amazing thing about plays and stage shows is how the designers and choreographers make an entire world come alive right in front of your eyes. With Batman Live, this happens through both the use of amazing sets (we'll get to that) and the use of a massive video screen (415,750 pixels—imagine THAT in your living room) that provides beautiful shots of the city and sets the tone through motion graphics and animation.

 

 

5. Creative Director Anthony Van Laast

This one sort of speaks for itself. Van Lasst's credits as choreographer include: Sister Act, Bombay Dreams, Mamma Mia!, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, Annie Get your Gun, and more. Some of you stage connoisseurs may have heard of these, and for those that haven't, rest assured that these plays boast a production big on spectacle with equally immersive storytelling.

 

5.1 Those Previously Mentioned Amazing Sets by ES Devlin


 

 

5.2 The Massive Cast of Characters

 

Tags: 
5.2 Reasons, batman live, Allan Heinberg, batmobile, Batman

5.2 Reasons to Love the Green Lantern Universe

The GREEN LANTERN ANNUAL #1 lit up comic book shelves yesterday, and can you believe... Wait, you have read it already right? If not, stop reading this article, go buy it from the comic shop or download it onto your mobile device, and read it immediately. It's okay. We'll wait.
 
Back? Awesome. So, crazy, right?! The First Lantern! Black Hand! The Third Army! Holy Moley. We've been fans of writer Geoff Johns' Green Lantern epic since he kicked things off with the GREEN LANTERN: REBIRTH limited series, and since then, Johns has crafted a veritable space opera filled with amazing character development, epic action, and continuing twists and turns that leave us desperately wanting a ring to fly through our ceiling and recruit us into the Corps. (We don't know what the word "reality" means).
 
As such, this week, we're listing off the 5.2 Reasons to Love the Green Lantern Universe!
1. New Characters
The upcoming GREEN LANTERN #0 introduces readers to a brand new recruit: the mysterious Baz. Not much is known about him, but we're already pretty stoked to find out all we can. After all, this is part of a time-honored tradition with this title. Over the years, the Green Lantern comic has introduced quite a few new characters, and everyone has their favorite—Hal, Guy, John, Kyle, Kilowog, G'Nort for some of you out there, we're sure... probably. Needless to say, we can't wait to see Baz join the ranks of the Green Lantern greats.
 


2. Diversity
The Green Lantern Corps also boasts a very diverse cast of characters—from strong female heroes like Soranik Natu and Laira to one of comics' most prominent African-American characters, John Stewart, to whatever the heck Chaselon is—and with his Arab heritage, the newest Green Lantern adds to this mix. Of course, when making a point about diversity, it would be unthinkable to limit it merely to humans, and Green Lantern is proud to feature more Korugaran, Xudarian, Bellatrixian and Ungaran characters than any other comic book in history!
 



3. Epic Events
The introduction of the newest Green Lantern comes in conjunction with the latest chapter in the Lantern saga, "Rise of The Third Army," which in itself follows previous game-changing crossovers like the incredibly popular "Sinestro Corps War" and "War of the Green Lanterns." We still remember the chill we felt when Batman rose in "Blackest Night," and this moment in Sinestro Corps War is still one of our favorites ever for the character:
 



4. Seeing the Guardians Completely Lose It
We mentioned earlier the character growth present throughout all of Johns' GL run, but nothing stands out as both terrifyingly awesome and awesomely terrifying as the once-thought benevolent Guardians of the Universe ever so slowly going totally insane.
 
5. The Emotional Spectrum
If you’re new to the world of Green Lantern (welcome, by the way!), you may not realize that Lanterns in this world come in far more colors than just green. Johns introduced an entire emotional spectrum, each with its own Corps, color, and power. And like arguing whether you belong in Gryffindor or Ravenclaw (poor, poor Hufflepuff), fans have long since enjoyed discussing and theorizing about which Corps they'd belong in. Not to mention the replica lanterns, rings and shirts you can get to show off your Corps pride.
 
5.1 Ch'p and Dex-Starr Are Two Characters That Exist and It is Awesome
 

 
5.2 So. Many. Cosplay. Options.

Tags: 
5.2 Reasons, Green Lantern, geoff johns, Baz, sinestro, sinestro corps war, Rise of the Third Army

5.2 Reasons to Pay Attention to National Comics

The world of comics is like the fruits section of the grocery store. Generally, you stay in your comfort zone and grab the usual fruit snacks—apples, oranges, bananas. But every now and then, you see those pineapples sitting there... but you aren't sure about them. You don't know if you'll like it or how to even check for ripeness. Then one day someone comes over to you and says, "Try these. They're great!" They hand one over and give you a taste of something different—and you end up loving it.
 
Well, dear readers, those apples, oranges, and bananas are your Batmans, Supermans, and Wonder Womans. And National Comics is your pineapple. (Non-metaphorically speaking, if anyone knows how to check for the ripeness of a pineapple, let us know in the comments, cause we're still totally unsure how that works. There's, like, tapping and leaf pulling or something?)
 
Anyway, National Comics is a brand new series featuring re-imagined interpretations of some of the more obscure characters in the DC Comics catalogue—from Kid Eternity and the Looker to Madame X and more. The first issue, NATIONAL COMICS: ETERNITY #1 hit shops last month, and the second in the series, NATIONAL COMICS: LOOKER #1 comes out tomorrow. And the great thing is that you don’t have to read Eternity to pick up and get into Looker. They’re entirely separate, but equally cool, stories. But we’re getting ahead of ourselves. Let’s look at the 5.2 Reasons to Pay Attention to National Comics!
 
1. The Format
Getting into a new series can be a difficult decision to make. Going in relatively blind—much less with a new character—and committing to multiple issues in order to experience a full story might dissuade potential readers, and that's totally understandable. Which is why with National Comics fans get a full, done-in-one story in each and every single issue.
 
2. The Covers
People often say not to judge a book by its cover but in this case, we say go ahead and do so because the covers are, in a word, breathtaking. And in a few more words, drool-worthily breathtaking. Check out these brilliantly designed covers to NATIONAL COMICS: ROSE AND THORN #1 and NATIONAL COMICS: MADAME X #1:






3. The Writers
National Comics not only gives our lesser-known characters a chance to shine but it also allows the extraordinarily phenomenal creators at DC a chance to dabble in all-new areas free from continuity—and we started it off with a bang! National Comics: Eternity #1 featured Jeff Lemire journeying into some of the infinite possibilities that have always resided in this classic character. And if you read it, you know he left the door wide open with the welcome mat out for more.
 
4. The Artists
Along with beautiful covers by greats such as Ryan Sook and Fiona Staples, National Comics touts an impressive cast of creators that make sure each issue is as beautiful inside as out. Creators like Cully Hamner—one of the most talented artists in comics today. His unique style is as unmistakable as a fingerprint and his character designs are second to none.
 
5. Human Heroes
As awesome as characters like Batman and Superman are, it’s sometimes hard to picture them existing in real life. If they did, they’d almost certainly be celebrities. But characters like Eternity, Looker, Rose and Thorn and Madame X feel like people we could know. These aren’t icons to aspire to—they’re everyday people who just happen to have some sort of ability that sets them apart. And unlike those guys hanging out in the Watchtower, these folks don’t want to be set apart. They just want to live normal lives. Sound familiar?
 
5.1 Characters Who Are Undead…

 
5.2 …And Ones Who Just Look Like They Are.

 

Tags: 
5.2 Reasons, National Comics, Eternity, Looker, Rose and Thorn, Madame X, jeff lemire, cully hamner, ryan sook, fiona staples

5.2 Reasons to Fill Your Homes with DC Collectibles

 

Being a nerdy, pop-culture obsessed person comes with certain proclivities—quoting famous movies ("SWEAR TO ME!"), keeping up with the latest comic book, entertainment and video game news on the Interwebs (Catwoman joins INJUSTICE: GODS AMONG US!), arguing about who would beat who in a fight (Vibe, always), and collecting a whole lot of sweet, sweet tchotchkes.

 

Toys. Statues. Prints. Mugs. Plushies. iPhone cases. Stickers. Sneakers. Hoodies. T-Shirts. Purses. Wallets. The list goes on and on when it comes to the types of things we can surround ourselves with in every single aspect of our lives. Just take a look at this:

 

 

That's just part of our office. You don't want to see our homes (We don't want to end up on "Hoarders"). But the truth remains, we love letting our nerd flag fly—and we're hoping you do, too. So, we're giving you 5.2 Reasons to Fill Your Homes with DC Collectibles!

 

1. Archival Prints

Sweet Mary Marvel, look at these things! One of the newest arrivals to the DC Collectibles family of awesome stuff, these prints invoke a certain simplistic classiness in their design, making them ideal for home décor. We could seriously rave about them forever, but we'll let a few speak for themselves:

 

 

 


2. Ame-Comi

They're cute, beautifully designed, and fantastically anime-esque. These figures look undeniably gorgeous, but it’s the little, delightfully creative details that really sell them. Jade using her powers to make lantern-looking headphones, Mera's dress extending to a mermaid-ian finish, the awesomeness goes on and on. Check 'em out:

 

 

3. Batman: Black and White

Batman: Black and White was originally a back-up strip that ran in BATMAN: GOTHAM KNIGHTS. Each story was written and drawn by different creators—which allowed for various takes on the Dark Knight. The same principle extends here. Because of this line, we get access to Batman statues based on the art of Dawyn Cooke, Lee Bermejo, Dustin Nguyen and more!

 

 

4. Action Figures

We totally don't act out our favorite storylines (and our own DCU fan-fiction adventures) with toys. Nope. Not at all... Now if you'll excuse us for a moment, Arkham City Batman is about to throw down with New 52 Superman in a match refereed by Red Son Wonder Woman. It's going to be awesome.

 

5. Cover Girls of the DC Universe

Similar to Batman: Black and White but with, you know, cover girls, the series takes cover images by some of the best in the biz and makes them into statues. Adam Hughes opened the line (because, well, ADAM HUGHES!) and it has since expanded to brand new designs based on the costumes of The New 52.

 

 

5.1 DC Collectibles’ New System Of Measurement

 

 

5.2 What the Future Still Holds

 

And speaking of the future, be sure to check out the DC Entertainment Shop for more rad merch and keep an eye on DCComics.com and THE SOURCE in the coming weeks for a whole slate of fun new features and content from DC Collectibles. It’ll be kicking off the first week of September. Don’t miss out!

Tags: 
5.2 Reasons, DC Collectibles, Archival Prints, Batman, Cover Girls of the DC Universe, Ame-Comi, Aquaman

5.2 Reasons Why J.H. Williams III Rocks Our World

The phrase "legendary artist" gets tossed around a lot these days. Picasso? He couldn't even draw a face properly. And what's up with those melting clocks, Dali? (Nah, just kidding, they're great). But considering the fact that J.H. Williams III has worked with some of the most renowned and influential writers in comic book history—Alan Moore, Grant Morrison, Greg Rucka and now Neil Gaiman—the term "legendary artist" just doesn't seem like enough.
 
So, we're coming up with a new term! Legendeawesome... Awesomedary... Legawesomedary...
 
Yeesh… This is a lot more difficult than we though. So instead, we're just going to list off the 5.2 Reasons Why J.H. Williams III Rocks Our World!
1. BATWOMAN
Every month as part of DC Comics—The New 52, Williams grabs hold of the writing reins alongside W. Haden Blackman and provides art on alternating arcs of the Batwoman series. This week sees the release of Batwoman #12, which returns Williams to penciling duties; however, he also previously worked on the character of Kate Kane during his Eisner Award-winning run on DETECTIVE COMICS #854-860 with writer Greg Rucka.
 
2. SANDMAN
One of the biggest announcements to come out of this year's San Diego Comic-Con was the news that awesomedary comic book writer and novelist Neil Gaiman will be making his triumphant return to the world of Sandman next summer with a brand-new limited series—with art provided by Williams. Already our brain cells are exploding from amazing overload just imagining this team-up. Then this happened and we lost consciousness for a while:
 


3. BATMAN
It takes a certain type of artist to delve into the mind of Grant Morrison and put onto the page the mad genius found within. Thankfully, Williams ranks as one of those artists and more than proved his ability to do so with his collaboration with Morrison on the BATMAN #667-669 arc, "The Island of Mister Mayhew."

4. PROMETHEA
Mixing magic, mythology, and mysticism, Promethea teamed Williams with writer Alan Moore. The series stands as one of the most experimental in comics—both in storytelling and especially in art—and to this day Williams' unique style, attention to detail and beautiful imagery shines through with almost blinding brilliance.
 

 
5. CHASE
Besides being a great series in its own right—focusing on the character of Cameron Chase who gives readers a different, more grounded perspective on the world of superheroes—the nine-issue Chase series first elevated Williams to prominence in the comic art community. Reading the series from its first issue to its last, you really see the evolution of Williams' art as he grows into the artist we see today that continues to wow us with every image he puts on paper.

5.1 Splash Pages Like These



5.2 He Rocks an Awesome Beard


What's your favorite work from J.H. Williams III that you think everyone should check out? Let us know in the comments section!

Tags: 
5.2 Reasons, J.H. Williams III, batwoman, neil gaiman, sandman, Greg Rucka, Batman, grant morrison, Promethea

5.2 Reasons We Love Action Comics' Superman

When superstar writer Grant Morrison launched ALL-STAR SUPERMAN back in 2005, he crafted a tale that took the Man of Steel back to his more classic roots while still approaching the character with modern sensibilities. He reinvented the Superman of old for today's audience and the end result quickly became lauded as one of the greatest Superman tales ever written.

With last year's relaunch of ACTION COMICS, Morrison reinvented the Man of Steel once more—and the results were once again, in a word, super.

This week marked the release of SUPERMAN: ACTION COMICS Vol. 1, which collects Morrison’s first major arc on the title, and within those colorful comic book pages lie the 5.2 Reasons We Love Action Comics' Superman!

1. Reinvention Through Reinterpretation
With Action Comics, Morrison once again returned to an intrepretation of Superman from times past, but one even further back than in All-Star--all the way to the Man of Steel's original appearance. And by once again keeping a modern sensibility, Morrison created a younger, rasher and bolder Man of Steel, one who seems to enjoy using his powers (all while helping others, of course).


2. More Powerful Than...
As a younger version of the character, this Superman hasn't quite reached his full potential, which means when it comes to threats and dangers… Well, this beautifully chilling image that plays on the old Superman adage says it all:



3. Superman's Clark Kent's Pal: Jimmy Olsen
With Action Comics, Jimmy Olsen is now friends with Clark Kent instead of Superman, and like a butterfly flapping its wings in Metropolis causing a tornado in Smallville, a little change makes a huge difference in the logistics of their friendship.

4. New Krypton
Morrison and artist Gene Ha's interpretation of Krypton and Kryptonians is stunningly beautiful and visually breathtaking. Plus, the little tweaks Morrison made to the destruction of the planet and ultimate rocketing of the infant Kal-El off-planet make events much more realistic—or rather as realistic as a baby in a rocket from another planet facing untimely destruction can be.

5. References Abound
As any Morrison fan knows, reading between the lines is not so much a suggestion as a requirement. Morrison loves adding winks and nods to previous continuity and stories, and his Action Comics run holds no exception. Check out a few we found below, and let us know in the comments any references you may have found!





5.1 Sensational Backup Tales by Sholly Fisch

5.2 Costume of the People




Is Action Comics taking you up, up, and away into the stratosphere of awesome? Let us know what you think in the comments!

Tags: 
action comics, Superman, grant morrison, clark kent, Kal-El, rags morales, gene ha, 5.2 Reasons, All-Star Superman

Pages

Subscribe to 5.2 Reasons